This month’s volunteer spotlight features Barb Brown. Barb has been a big part of the transformational growth of the OCF. She started as an active parent when her daughter was a member of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) and then she became the advisor. She served as a YAC advisor for several years and even became a member of the board. Her dedication is a real inspiration! This year as board chair her wisdom was extremely helpful in navigating tornado response efforts.
Here is what Barb had to say about her experience volunteering for the OCF.
1. What attracted you to become involved with the OCF?
My daughter Emily was a member of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC), and I learned from her how the OCF helps other non-profit organizations by funding grants. I was impressed with how our youth are making a difference in our community.
2. In your opinion, what is the most important work this organization does?
The OCF gives hope to our community through its leadership and innovative collaboration with other local organizations, especially through the grant making process.
3. What’s it like to volunteer for the OCF?
It has been an honor and privilege to volunteer for the OCF! It’s very rewarding seeing the positive impact each volunteer is making and hearing the success stories as a result of the grants we’ve been able to award.
4. What OCF committees have you been involved with?
I started as a YAC advisor, then became an OCF board member. As a YAC advisor, I was able to be a part of the Grant, Extreevaganza, and 100+ Women Who Care committees. While serving on the board, I have been on the 100+ Women Who Care, Accreditation, Finance, and Executive committees.
5. What do you hope the organization will achieve soon? In the long-term?
Ideally, I’d like to see the OCF receive a multimillion dollar donation for the Community Fund so it can improve the sustainability of the organization and have an even bigger positive impact in our community both today and for perpetuity.
6. Does anyone in your life play a role in supporting your involvement? In providing inspiration?
My husband Bruce, daughter Emily, and mom Joan are all supportive and provide inspiration for my philanthropic journey. My parents instilled in me the importance of giving back to the communities in which we live, so I learned about philanthropy at an early age. I also receive inspiration from Dana and the entire staff at OCF, along with the other Board and Committee members.
7. What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering for the OCF?
I highly recommend it! It’s very insightful in regard to learning what the needs of our county are, and it’s extremely rewarding knowing I’ve played a small part in helping others in our community.